Crazy for Chick Grit

emalin said:

Hi,
I have my first batch of chicks and have started giving them bits of greens and cooked egg. I set out chick grit at the same time. The chicks went so insane over it, that I took it out after a while. I was afraid they would eat their weight in it. I reintroduce it every time I give a treat plus give them bits of sod with dirt from our lawn every few days. Still, they just can't get enough grit. I just accidentally left the grit bowl in the brooder for 30 minutes and three 2-week-old chicks ate at least a tablespoon. It's not just one chick--all three are crazy for the stuff. Is this normal? I am thinking about switching to a scratch & peck feed since they are so into scratching and eating grit. Would this help (assuming it's a problem at all)? Thanks to any more experienced chicken people who can help.

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justplainbatty said:

I don't think they will over eat it but they do need it. Grass and greens are tough to digest. Once they have a sufficient amount in the crop and gizzard, they will be more normal about it. Just watch their poop. You should not see a bunch of grit in it. Once the grit is round enough and small enough, they do pass it. That is normal. Keep them on their starter feed. They really need the protein and other stuff in it.

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ShadesofSable said:

Mine did this too! I gave up trying to leave it in and started just putting a couple pinches on their food every day, but if they really won't over eat it I'll just leave some in from now on. Love reading through posts like this, I always learn something!

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